A crime is wrongful conduct defined by law as being punishable by imprisonment, a fine, or other penalty. Felonies are the more serious crimes, generally those involving physical force (such as homicide, kidnapping, and robbery), which may be punished by over a year of imprisonment or even death. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses that are punished by a fine, penalty, forfeiture, or imprisonment of a year or less. Depending on a state’s laws, misdemeanors may include trespassing, minor thefts, or first-time drug possession. The Ridings Group, LLC has provided professional and diligent legal representation to criminal defendants in St. Louis, Missouri since 2004. We have defended the rights and liberty of clients in a variety of felony and misdemeanor cases, ranging from complex white-collar and violent crimes to more simple matters involving drug possession and petty theft.

Federal and state constitutions provide important safeguards to protect citizens against intrusive law enforcement practices. The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable police searches and seizures. A person cannot be arrested and taken into custody unless the officer has a warrant or probable cause to believe that the person has committed or is committing a crime. The "probable cause" standard requires the police officer to be able to articulate facts that would cause a reasonable person to believe that the suspect has committed or is committing a crime. If you are detained or arrested by law enforcement authorities, politely assert your right to consult with an attorney before questioning. Important legal rights may be lost or waived if you fail to request an attorney at the earliest point of the criminal process.

If you or someone you know have been accused of a crime, regardless of severity, please contact The Ridings Group, LLC at 314-621-1800 for professional, confidential advice and counsel regarding your rights and options.